London Assembly investigates film making in London

12 June 2006The importance of the film industry to the capital’s economy and the challenges faced by film makers will be investigated by the London Assembly on Tuesday 13 June.There is a major film production industry in and around London, which dominate the British film industry. London as a film making centre is third after New York and Los Angeles. However the Assembly has found a number of issues that need to be addressed to assist the capital’s film industry. Filming in London can be expensive and women and ethnic minorities are underrepresented in the industry.Problems can also arise between production companies and local authorities, such as parking, disruption to residents, road closures and use of police resources.What are the opportunities, risks and challenges facing film-makers in London?Are the Mayor, London Development Agency and Film London doing enough to promote and support the industry?How are UK legislation and other regulations impacting on London’s attractiveness as a location for filming, compared to other world cities?These are just some of the questions the Assembly’s Economic Development, Culture, Sport and Tourism Committee will put to:Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive, Film LondonMartin Spence, Assistant General Secretary, Broadcasting Entertainment Cinematograph and Theatre Union (BECTU)Ivan Dunleavy, Chief Executive, Pinewood StudiosMick Ratman, Chair, Guild of Location ManagersAndrew Pavord, Film Officer, Southwark CouncilJudy Counihan, Director of Film, Skillset [sector skills council]Most of the UK industry is in small to medium-sized companies, which have less international influence and are vulnerable to economic volatility. To compete in the future, London needs more and better skills in its workforce and work must be done to help people get the right training.The Committee will publish a report in the Autumn.